Whether you’re a new expat in America or you plan on hiring a rental car for your summer vacation to the country, there are a few things you need to know before you arrive in the States.
Most of the road rules in America are similar to those in many other parts of the world. However, there are some key differences that you’ll need to know before you get behind the wheel.
If you’re buying a car when you move to America or you’re just hiring a rental, you will need insurance. It’s illegal to drive without insurance. Shop around for the cheapest car insurance in Arizona or whichever state you’re staying in so that you can stay on the right side of the law while reducing your expenses.
Another important way to minimize your car-related expenses when driving abroad is to avoid road traffic accidents at all costs. Knowing the rules of the road is one of the best ways to stay out of any serious accidents while you’re driving on the long and vast roads in America.
Many of the driving laws in the States are obvious. Even some of the rules that are exclusive to the country are easy to pick up when you’re an expat or traveler.
But there are many rules that are not quite as obvious. What makes things even more complicated is the fact that every American state has unique laws that are not applicable to any other area in the country.
Being unaware of the unusual rules of the road in America not only annoys other drivers but could put your safety at risk. Here are some of the unusual rules of the road to learn for various states before you head to America.
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No Bathrobes Allowed in California
As strange as this sounds, you read this first rule right. In California, it is illegal to drive in bathroom attire. Unusually, this rule only applies to women.
No Blindfolds Allowed, Alabama
In the state of Alabama, it is illegal to drive with any form of a blindfold or an eye mask. As simple and obvious as this law sounds, the authorities in Alabama clearly thought it necessary to reiterate that you need to drive with full visibility!
Every Car Must Have a Steering Wheel, Illinois
Another obvious road of the rule but clearly one that the Illinois officials felt necessary to put in place is the rule that every car must have a steering wheel. In Illinois, it is not only irresponsible and difficult to drive your car without a fully functioning wheel but it’s against the law.
Keep Your Car Clean, Minnesota
Some people are naturally very clean and tidy people. Others allow their cars to accumulate random receipts, kid’s toys, and empty takeaway boxes before tidying their vehicles every few months.
While it’s okay to have a bit of clutter in your vehicle in Minnesota, the rules are not so lackluster when it comes to keeping your vehicle clean. It’s considered a public nuisance to drive around a dirty car, so make sure you give your vehicle a good wash every few weeks.
